What is the name of the small surgical knife that has a thin sharp, removable blade?

The correct term for the small surgical knife with a thin, sharp, and removable blade is a scalpel. This instrument is specifically designed for precision cutting in surgeries and is essential for incisions into skin and other tissues. Scalpels come in various shapes and sizes, with the blade being interchangeable depending on the specific surgical needs.

Unlike scissors, which are designed for cutting materials like thread or gauze, or forceps, which are used for grasping and holding tissues, the scalpel's primary function is to make incisions. While "surgical blade" can refer to the blades used with scalpels, it is not the name of the instrument itself; instead, it describes the part that fits onto the scalpel handle. This clarification is key in understanding the distinct roles of each tool in a surgical setting.